The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.
What are student education records?
Student education records are any records that https://patharkandicollege.org/ information about a student, such as academic records, disciplinary records, health records, and financial aid records.
What are the rights of parents and students under FERPA?
Parents of students under the age of 18 have the right to:
- Inspect and review their child’s education records.
- Request that the school correct any inaccurate or misleading information in their child’s education records.
- Restrict the disclosure of their child’s education records.
Students who are 18 years old or older, or who are attending a school beyond the high school level, have the same rights as parents.
When can a school disclose student education records without consent?
A school can disclose student education records without consent in certain limited circumstances, such as:
- To the student.
- To the student’s parents or guardian.
- To school officials who have a legitimate educational interest in the records.
- To other schools that the student is transferring to.
- To the government, if required by law.
- To organizations that provide financial aid to the student.
- To accrediting organizations.
- To law enforcement officials, if necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or others.
What are the penalties for violating FERPA?
Schools that violate FERPA can be fined up to $19,665 for each violation. Individuals who violate FERPA can be fined up to $4,999 for each violation.
How can I learn more about FERPA?
The U.S. Department of Education has a website with more information about FERPA:
You can also contact your school’s FERPA compliance officer for more information.